Many of us find comfort and structure in our daily routines, whether it’s picking up your regular coffee on the way to work or reading a bedtime story to your children.
Routines are consistent activities that happen around the same time each day and can provide a sense of safety to young children. These activities can play a big role in the development and well-being of children.
Here are a few ways routines can play a role in your child’s development and well-being:
- Creates a Sense of Security: Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety
- Promotes Self-Discipline: Children can manage their time effectively and develop life skills when they know what someone else expects of them and when
- Establishes Healthy Habits: A routine can also impact physical health, such as regular mealtimes, bedtime routines and hygiene practices.
Create a Routine
Here are some key steps and things to consider as you’re building a routine that is effective and sustainable.
- Identify Priorities: Determine the key activities and tasks that are important for your child’s well-being and development like meals, chores and playtime.
- Consider Your Child’s Needs: Tailor a routine to fit your child’s characteristics. Also, be mindful of your child’s age, temperament, interests, and any specific needs or preferences they have.
- Set Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate the routine to your child using simple language and visuals. This is helpful for younger children to help them understand why each activity is important.
- Establish Consistent Times: Set specific times for each activity in the routine is key to a child feeling secure and managing expectation.
- Include Transition Times: Allow transition times between activities to help your child switch gears smoothly. A transition period between play time and bed could start with a calming activity like reading.
By following these steps and incorporating your child’s unique needs and preferences, you can create routines that support their well-being, development, and overall happiness.
Additional Resources:
- 4C’s Quick Connections Video: Family Routines
- PBS for Parents: Creating Routines
- Sesame Workshop: Learning Through Routines
Community Events:
- Family Storytime in Downtown Main Library in Cincinnati: Tuesday, April 9, 10:30-11 a.m.
- Earth Day Clean Up at Osborn Park in Fairborn: Thurs. April 18, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Fizzy Science at Dayton Metro Library (Miami Township Branch): Sat. April 20, 2-3:30 p.m.
- Celebrate Earth Day at Summit Park in Blue Ash: April 27, 12-5 p.m.
Learn Through Play
Help children learn through play by using one of the following age-specific monthly calendars that feature daily activities.
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